Last night, Tanya, Steve, Caleb, Ryan, Shannon, Charlie, Daisy and Van and Doug were all here. An enjoyable evening. One grandchild missing but I was grateful that no photos were posted. I wish not to be exclusionary regarding our lovely and beautiful Emma. All of my grandchildren are equally important and loved. I do miss having her at family functions. This year, I did have a talk with Ryan about it as it just seems that it is the white elephant in the room. Everyone wonders about it but doesn't know what to say. I hope Emma will always know that she is every bit as special as every one of my grandchildren. Ryan's words were, 'this is better for Emma'. So, I will not judge, not question and I will accept.
As time races through the seconds, hours, days, weeks, months, years, I am thankful for those special times we have.
Once a parent, always a parent, it is life-long. You never stop worrying about whether or not your kids and grandkids are happy, you look for constant signs, you long for their happiness now and always. Ryan, I hope you're happy. I wonder and look for the signs and sometimes I worry. Choose happiness.
And on this reflection - I merely have a reminder that we always savor those wonderful occasions where family comes together for the laughs, the meals that fill you up and then some, and the great chatter among everyone. And to those specials members who are now our special spirits, thank you for always making your signs so apparent to let us know you too are still here.
